Vietnam ministry proposes rules for lethal injection procedures

The draft decree, prepared by the Ministry of Public Security, consists of four chapters and 24 articles.

It applies to agencies, organizations, and individuals involved in executions, as well as those sentenced to death.

The decree aims to ensure constitutionality, legality, deterrence, and coordination among ministries in line with the 2025 Law on Criminal Execution.

The proposal outlines the three-drug protocol: one to induce unconsciousness, one to paralyze the muscular system, and one to stop the heart.

Each execution requires one full set of drugs, with two backup sets available.

The Ministry of Health will supply the drugs at the request of the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of National Defense.

Strict procedures for storage, handover, and sealing are included.

Facilities must be equipped with specialized rooms, automatic injection machines, heart monitors, cameras, and secure beds with restraints.

Execution chambers will be built or upgraded at provincial police headquarters and military units.

Before the procedure, the drugs are inspected and unsealed by the execution council.

The condemned person is secured on a bed in a supine position to ensure proper blood circulation.

The execution process includes three steps:

- First, administering the anesthetic to render the person unconscious. If unconsciousness is not achieved, additional doses are given.

- Second, injecting the paralytic agent.

- Third, administering the drug that stops the heart.

Medical personnel monitor heart activity throughout.

If the prisoner is not dead within 10 minutes after the first dose, the council may order the use of backup doses.

If all three doses fail, the execution team must report to the council chair for further decisions.

Afterward, a forensic doctor confirms death, and the execution team removes all medical equipment. An official record is then completed.

The draft also proposes allowances for personnel involved in executions.

Execution team members would receive triple their base salary per case and 10 days of rest.

Other participants, including guards, interpreters, and local officials, would receive smaller allowances.

The Ministry of Public Security suggested the decree take effect on July 1.